KR102585676B1 - Image reading apparatus, method of controlling image reading apparatus, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

An image reading device configured to cause an original placed on an original tray to be returned based on information about the thickness of the original, comprising: detection means for detecting the original placed on the original tray, and detecting the original when the detecting means detects that the original is placed on the original tray; Display means for displaying an object that sets the thickness, paper conveyance control means for causing the paper conveyance means to convey the original based on information about the thickness of the original set by the object displayed by the display means, and conveyance by the paper conveyance means. and reading means for reading an image of a placed original, wherein the image reading device receives a setting as to whether or not to display a screen for setting the thickness of the original when the detection means detects the placed original.

Description

Image reading device, method of controlling the image reading device, and storage medium {IMAGE READING APPARATUS, METHOD OF CONTROLLING IMAGE READING APPARATUS, AND STORAGE MEDIUM}

The present disclosure relates to an image reading device that controls conveyance of an original based on the thickness of the original, a control method of the image reading device, and a storage medium.

When the original read by the automatic document conveying device is thick paper, the load on the conveying roller increases at the curved portion of the conveying path, so jams frequently occur at the curved portion. Additionally, when the original is on thin paper, it takes time for the ejected original to completely fall onto the discharge area due to the light weight of the original, so the rear edge of the original and the leading edge of the next original collide with each other, causing jams or stacking failures. .

In view of the above-described problem, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-24604 urges the user to select between thin paper, thick paper, and plain paper, or detects the paper thickness and changes the manuscript conveyance speed according to the detected paper thickness. Discuss conventional automatic manuscript conveyance devices.

In order to automatically detect the paper thickness, a sensor needs to be added to the automatic document feeder, and the addition of such a sensor increases the cost.

Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-204139 discusses a technique for accepting manuscript thickness from the user by displaying a manuscript thickness selection screen as the user places the manuscript while the copy screen is displayed. As a result, the thickness of the original can be recognized without using a sensor.

However, in the current prior art, it is believed that there are cases where the thickness of the manuscript read by the image reading device is predetermined depending on the type of work.

Even in the above-mentioned case, if the original thickness selection screen is automatically displayed each time a original is placed in the automatic original conveyance device, the user needs to set the paper thickness setting each time, which increases the user's time and effort.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an image reading device configured to cause an original placed on an original tray to be conveyed based on information about the thickness of the original includes a detection unit configured to detect that the original is placed on the original tray, the original A display device configured to display an object that sets the thickness of the document when the detection unit detects that the document is placed on a tray, based on information about the thickness of the document set by the object displayed by the display device. a paper conveying controller configured to cause the paper conveying device to convey the original, and a reading unit configured to read an image of the original conveyed by the paper conveying device, wherein when the detection unit detects the placed original, The user is prompted to make a setting as to whether or not to display a screen for setting the thickness of the original.

Additional features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 shows an example of the appearance of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the configuration of an automatic document feed unit (ADF) and an image reading unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4 shows the operating unit.
FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D each show an example of a screen displayed on a liquid crystal display (LCD) touch panel.
FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C each show an example of a paper thickness selection method setting screen displayed on an LCD touch panel.
Figure 7 shows the settings value structure stored in random access memory (RAM).
Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing processing for setting a paper thickness selection method according to the first exemplary embodiment.
Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing processing for setting paper thickness according to the first exemplary embodiment.
Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing job setting processing according to the first exemplary embodiment.
Fig. 11 shows an example of a screen when the paper thickness setting is invalid in the first exemplary embodiment.
Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing processing for executing scan according to the first exemplary embodiment.
Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing processing for setting paper thickness according to the second exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings.

Below, a first exemplary embodiment will be described. 1 shows an example of the appearance of an image forming device, which is an example of an image reading device.

The image forming apparatus according to this exemplary embodiment includes an image reading unit 200 and an image forming unit 500.

The image reading unit 200 inputs reflected light obtained by exposing and scanning an image on a document with light emitted from an illumination lamp to a linear image sensor (charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor), thereby converting information about the image into an electrical signal. Convert to The image reading unit 200 also converts the electrical signals into luminance signals of red (R), green (G), and blue (B), and outputs the luminance signals as image data to the controller of the image forming apparatus.

The original is set in the original tray 30 of the automatic document feeding unit (hereinafter referred to as ADF) 100. When the user inputs an instruction to execute reading processing through the operation unit of the image forming device, the controller of the image forming device sends an instruction to read the document to the image reading unit 200. When the image reading unit 200 receives this instruction, it feeds one document at a time from the document tray 30 of the ADF 100 and reads each document. Additionally, the user can also read the manuscript by placing it on a platen glass, which will be described later.

The image forming unit 500 is an image forming device that forms image data received from the controller 400 on paper.

The image forming method according to this exemplary embodiment is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt. Additionally, the image forming unit 500 includes, as a paper feeding unit 504, a plurality of cassettes capable of storing paper of different sizes or different orientations. Additionally, printed paper is discharged to the discharge unit 502. The finisher unit 505 performs post-processing, such as stapling processing and punching processing, on paper based on user settings.

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the configuration of the ADF 100 and the image reading unit 200 according to the present exemplary embodiment.

The operation of the ADF 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. 2. In FIG. 2, the ADF 100 includes a document tray 30, a separation pad 21, and a paper feed roller 1. An original stack (S) of one or more sheets of original paper is loaded on the original tray (30). The separation pad 21 regulates the document stack S to prevent the document stack S from moving downstream from the document tray 30 before document transport begins. Additionally, the ADF 100 includes a document detection sensor 23, a ranging sensor 22, and a separation sensor 24. The document detection sensor 23 detects the document S placed on the document tray 30. The ranging sensor 22 measures the distance to the top of the document stack S. The separation sensor 24 detects that the original S has passed the separation roller 2. The original detection sensor 23 may be provided below the original to detect the original placed thereon. The paper feeding roller 1 falls on the uppermost surface of the document stack S loaded on the document tray 30 and rotates on it. As a result, the topmost original in the original stack S is fed. The originals conveyed by the paper feeding roller 1 are separated one by one by the action of the separation roller 2 and the separation pad 21. Separation is realized by well-known delay/separation techniques. At this time, if the separation sensor 24 does not detect the original after a predetermined amount of time (t1) has elapsed since the start of conveying the original, the driving of the paper feeding roller 1 is stopped. The predetermined time t1 until the paper feed roller 1 stops is a sufficient amount taking into account the expected amount of time and delay from the start of document conveyance expected based on the conveyance speed to the arrival at the separation sensor 24. It's time.

The original separated by the separation roller 2 and the separation pad 21 is conveyed by the conveyance roller 3 toward the registration roller 4, and hits the registration roller 4. As a result, the original is formed into a loop, and meandering feeding that occurs while the original is being conveyed is eliminated. Downstream of the registration roller 4, a paper feeding path is provided through which the originals that have passed the registration roller 4 are conveyed toward the skim glass 201.

The originals conveyed through the paper feeding path are conveyed onto the platen by the large roller 7 and the conveyance roller 5. At this time, the large roller 7 contacts the outer reading glass 201. The original conveyed by the large roller 7 passes through the conveying roller 6, moves between the roller 16 and the moving glass, and is transferred to the original discharge tray 31 through the discharge flapper and the discharge roller 8. It is badged.

The ADF 100 in Fig. 2 is a type of device configured to read an image on the back side of an original by flipping the original. The ADF 100 moves the document along the reversal path 19 by reversing the rotation of the output roller 8 and switching the output flapper while the output roller 8 is chewing the document. The ADF 100 moves the original along the reversal path 19 to collide with the registration roller 4 to form the original into a loop again, thereby eliminating meandering feeding that occurs while the original is being conveyed. After that, the ADF 100 moves the original again to the outer reading glass 201 using the conveying roller 5 and the large roller 7, so that the outer reading glass 201 reads the image on the back side of the original. make it possible

Additionally, the document tray 30 is provided with a guide regulation plate 15 and a document width detection sensor (not shown). The guide regulation plate 15 is slideable in the sub-scanning direction in which sub-scanning is performed on the loaded manuscript stack S. An original width detection sensor (not shown) detects the original width in conjunction with the guide regulation plate 15. The original size of the original stack S loaded on the original tray 30 can be identified by a combination of the original detection sensor 23 and the pre-registration sensor 11. Additionally, a document length detection sensor (not shown) provided in the transport path can detect the document length based on the transport distance from a detection point at the leading edge of the document being transported to a detection point at the rear end of the document. Additionally, the original size can also be identified based on the combination of the detected original length and original width detection sensor.

(Configuration example of image reading unit 200)

By the optical scanner unit 209 scanning the original on the platen glass 202 in the sub-scanning direction indicated by the arrow in Fig. 2, the image reading unit 200 optically reads the image information recorded on the original. Additionally, the image reading unit 200 controls the ADF 100 to convey the originals on the original tray 30 one by one to the reading position. Additionally, the image reading unit 200 moves the optical scanner unit 209 to the center of the reading position of the large roller 7 of the ADF 100 and reads the original at the reading position of the large roller 7. The original on the original tray 30 of the ADF 100 or the original on the platen glass 202 is read by the following optical system. This optical system includes a surface reading glass 201, a platen glass 202, a scanner unit 209 including a lamp 203 and a mirror 204, mirrors 205 and 206, a lens 207, and a CCD. Includes a sensor unit 210. The read image information is photoelectrically converted, and the photoelectrically converted image information is input as image data to a controller unit (not shown in Fig. 2). Additionally, the white plate 219 is used to generate reference data for the white level in shading.

In this exemplary embodiment, the CCD sensor unit 210 includes a color image readout (RGB) CCD (3-line sensor unit) 212 and a black-and-white image readout CCD (1-line sensor unit) 211.

In this exemplary embodiment, the ADF 100 configured to flip the original so that the image reading unit 200 reads the image on the back side of the original is explained as an example. Alternatively, the image reading unit 200 may include a document front surface reading CCD and a document back side reading CCD, allowing both sides of the document to be read when the document is conveyed once.

(Control block of ADF (100))

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus 1000 according to this exemplary embodiment.

The control block of the ADF 100 includes a control unit (hereinafter referred to as “CPU”) 300, which is a central processing unit, a read-only memory (hereinafter referred to as “ROM”) 301, and a random access memory (hereinafter referred to as “RAM”). ) 302, including an output port and an input port. The ROM 301 stores control programs and fixed parameters, and the RAM 302 stores input data and work data.

The output port is connected to a motor 303, a solenoid 306, and a clutch 307 that drive various conveyance rollers. The input port is also connected to various sensors 304.

The CPU 300 controls paper conveyance based on a control program stored in the ROM 301 connected through a bus line. The CPU 300 performs serial communication with the central processing unit (CPU) 321 of the image reading unit 200 through a control communication line 351, and exchanges control data with the image reading unit 200. Additionally, the image reading unit 200 is also notified of an image tip signal as a reference for the tip of the original image data through the control communication line 351.

Additionally, the CPU 300 notifies the image reading unit 200 of the values of various sensors 304 based on control data from the CPU 321 of the image reading unit 200.

(Control block of image reading unit 200)

In the control block of the image reading unit 200, the CPU 321 performs overall control of the image reading unit 200. CPU 321 is connected to ROM 322 and RAM 323. ROM 322 stores programs, and RAM 323 provides a work area. RAM 323 represents a work area including a non-volatile storage area.

The optical system motor drive unit 326 is a driver circuit configured to drive the optical system drive motor. The image reading unit 200 is connected to a lamp 203 and a CCD sensor unit 210 (black and white image reading CCD 211 for surface images/color image reading CCD 212 for surface images). The CPU 321 performs image reading processing by controlling the optical system motor drive unit 326 and controlling the CCD sensor unit 210 through the image processing unit 325.

In order to realize paper conveyance, the CPU 321 transmits a command related to paper conveyance control to the paper conveyance control CPU 300 of the ADF 100 through the control communication line 351 and conveys the paper to the CPU 300. instruct what to do Upon receiving the instruction, the CPU 300 monitors the sensor 304 provided on the conveyance path and drives the load motor 303, solenoid 306, and clutch 307 to convey the paper. realize. In this way, the CPU 321 controls the paper conveyance performed by the ADF 100 and the image reading performed by the image reading unit 200. The paper gap correction processing unit 324 performs paper gap correction.

The image signal formed on the CCD sensor unit 210 (one of the color image readout (RGB) CCD 212 and the black and white image readout CCD 211) by the lens 207 is converted into digital image data. The image processing unit 325 detects striped images on the image data and performs various types of image processing such as shading on the converted image data to correct the detected striped images, and the processed image data is stored in the image memory unit ( 329).

Data written to the image memory unit 329 is sequentially transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the controller interface image data information communication line 353, which includes a clock signal line for image transmission. Additionally, notification of the image tip signal that serves as the reference for the tip of the original image data is transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the controller interface control communication line 352 at a timing adjusted by the CPU 321. Similarly, notification of the image tip signal transmitted from the ADF 100 via the control communication line 351 is also sent to the controller unit via the controller interface control communication line 352 at a timing adjusted by the CPU 321 of the image reading unit 200. It is sent to (400).

CPU 321 controls image processing unit 325 connected on a control bus line. Additionally, the CPU 321 controls the CCD sensor unit 210 by transmitting a control signal to the CCD sensor unit 210 via the image processing unit 325 using the control communication line 354. While the CCD sensor unit 210 scans the original image, the color image reading CCD 212 or the black-and-white image reading CCD 211 reads the original image. Then, the read analog image signal of each line is output to the CCD control unit 213 through the image data communication line 214 or 215 including the clock signal line for image transmission.

The CCD control unit 213 converts analog signals into digital image data. Digital image data is transmitted to the image memory unit 329 through an image data information communication line 355 that includes a clock signal line for image transmission, and is then transmitted to the controller unit 400 through an image data information communication line 353. .

The CPU 321 performs serial communication with the central processing unit (CPU) 401 of the controller unit 400 through the control communication line 354, and exchanges control data with the controller unit 400. The CPU 321 performs abnormal shape detection for the document being transported based on control data from the central processing unit (CPU) 401 of the controller unit 400. In abnormal shape detection, for each original, the CPU 321 determines the distance to the top surface of the original S measured before the start of paper conveyance and the distance to the top surface of the original S measured after a predetermined amount of time t2 from the start of paper conveyance. Calculate the difference between the distances to the top surface of . If the calculated difference is greater than or equal to the predetermined level d1, the manuscript is determined to have an abnormality in shape. The CPU 321 notifies the central processing unit (CPU) 401 of the controller unit 400 of the determination result.

(Control block of controller unit 400)

The controller unit 400 for image processing is a device that controls the entire image forming apparatus 1000 including the ADF 100, the image reading unit 200, and the image forming unit 500. The controller unit 400 includes a CPU 401, an image processing circuit 402, a scanner interface (IF) 403, an image memory unit 404, an operation unit 405, a RAM 406, and a ROM 407. , printer IF 408, and hard disk drive (HDD) 409. RAM 406 provides a work area, and ROM 407 stores programs. RAM 406 represents a work area containing non-volatile storage area. ROM 407 and HDD 409 are examples of computer-readable storage media.

In an alternative configuration, a program is loaded from HDD 409 into RAM 406, and CPU 401 executes the loaded program.

Image data transmitted to the controller unit 400 via the image data information communication line 353 is stored in the image memory unit 404 via the scanner IF 403.

The image processing circuit 402 converts the image stored in the image memory unit 404 and returns the converted image back to the image memory unit 404. Image conversion processing performed by the image processing circuit 402 includes rotation processing for rotating an image in units of 32 x 32 pixels to a specified angle, and resolution conversion processing for converting the resolution of the image. The image conversion process performed by the image processing circuit 402 includes scaling processing for scaling the image, matrix operation for a multivalued image, and converting a YUV image to a Lab image using a lookup table (LUT). It further includes color space conversion processing. Color space conversion involves a 3×8 matrix operation using a one-dimensional LUT, thus enabling known background removal and offset prevention.

The controller unit 400 includes a network interface (I/F) (not shown) and transmits and receives image data and other data to and from an external personal computer (PC).

(Control block of image forming unit 500)

The image forming unit 500 conveys recording paper (paper), prints image data as a visible image on the recording paper, and discharges the printed recording paper to the outside of the device. The image forming unit 500 includes a control unit 501, a paper feeding unit 504, and a marking unit 503. The control unit 501 controls the image forming unit 500. The paper feeding unit 504 includes a plurality of recording paper cassettes that store a plurality of types of recording paper. The marking unit 503 has the function of transferring image data to recording paper and fixing the transferred image data to recording paper. The image forming unit 500 further includes a discharge unit 502 and a finisher unit 505. The discharge unit 502 has the function of outputting the printed recording paper to the outside of the device. The finisher unit 505 performs punching processing and sorting processing.

When the marking unit 503 is ready for image formation, the control unit 501 transmits an image tip signal serving as a tip reference to the controller unit 400 via the controller interface control communication line 356.

Then, the marking unit 503 transfers the image data transmitted through the controller interface image communication line 357 to the recording paper and fixes the transferred image data to the recording paper.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, the operation unit 405 shown in FIG. 3 will be described. The liquid crystal display (LCD) touch panel 600 is used to set the main mode and display status. Numeric keys 601 accept input of numeric values from 0 to 9. The identification (ID) key 602 is used to input the department number and passcode under which the device is department managed.

The reset key 603 is a key to reset the set mode. The guide key 604 is a key for displaying the mode description screen. The interrupt key 606 is a key for performing interrupt copying.

The start key 607 is a key that receives copy or scan execution instructions. The stop key 608 is a key to stop a running task (copy task, scan task).

The user mode key 605 is a key for changing to the user mode screen. The image forming device 1000 receives various settings for the device through the user mode screen.

The power saving key 609 is a key for changing the state of the image forming apparatus 1000 to the power saving state. When the image forming apparatus 1000 is in the power saving state, the image forming apparatus 1000 can return from the power saving state by pressing the power saving key 609 again.

The counter confirmation key 610 is a key that causes the LCD to display a count screen showing the total number of copied sheets.

A light emitting diode (LED) 611 indicates that images are accumulated in the image memory unit 404 during task execution. Error LED 612 indicates that the device is in an error state, for example a jam has occurred or a door has been opened. The power LED 613 indicates that the main switch of the device is ON.

The copy screen 759 in FIG. 5A is a screen displayed on the LCD touch panel 600. Buttons for making basic settings, such as a color selection button 751, a magnification button 752, and a paper selection button 753, are provided on the copy screen 759 as shown in FIG. 5A, and the current The settings are shown in section 750. Settings other than the basic settings can be selected by pressing the other function button 757. Figure 5C shows other function settings screen 760. Settings of functions other than those that can be set using the color selection button 751, magnification button 752, and paper selection button 753 can be set in the other function setting screen 760. Among the above-described functions, shortcut buttons for functions frequently used by users may be created on the copy screen 759. In this exemplary embodiment, a double-sided button 754 for setting double-sided printing and an offset prevention button 755 for setting the original offset prevention function are provided as shortcut buttons on the copy screen 759. A finishing button 756 for setting the output mode and post-processing when printing is also provided as a shortcut button on the copy screen 759.

The paper thickness setting screen 770 in FIG. 5B is an example of a screen for setting the thickness of the original (paper thickness). For example, the paper thickness setting screen 770 in FIG. 5B is displayed in a pop-up form when the document detection sensor 23 detects a document. Additionally, the paper thickness setting screen 770 can be manually displayed by selecting the paper thickness setting button displayed by selecting the other function button 757. In the paper thickness setting screen 770, thick paper 771, plain paper 772, and thin paper 773 are selectable. Although this exemplary embodiment has described an example of displaying thick paper 771, plain paper 772, and thin paper 773 as buttons, each button can be set as a single record, and a list of records is displayed. It can be. Buttons and records are examples of objects. The user can set the paper thickness by selecting it from thick paper (771), plain paper (772), and thin paper (773) and then pressing the OK key (774). The set paper thickness is stored in RAM 406.

The other function setting screen 760 in FIG. 5C is a screen for setting application functions of the copy function. The other function setting screen 760 is displayed when the other function button 757 of the copy screen 759 is selected. The other function setting screen 760 includes a density button 761 for setting print density in addition to a duplex button 754, an offset prevention button 755, and a finishing button 756. Additionally, the other function setting screen 760 includes a copy number print button 762 for setting the designation of the number of copies to be printed on the print original and a paper thickness setting function 763 for setting the original thickness setting.

FIG. 5D shows an example of a paper thickness setting screen on the application paper thickness setting screen 780. The application paper thickness setting screen 780 is displayed when the paper thickness setting function 763 of the other function setting screen 760 is pressed. In the application paper thickness setting screen 780, thick paper 781, plain paper 782, and thin paper 783 are selectable. The paper thickness is set by selecting the paper thickness and then pressing the OK key (785). The paper thickness setting can be canceled by selecting the cancel key 784. In this exemplary embodiment, an example in which thick paper 781, plain paper 782, and thin paper 783 are displayed as buttons has been described, but each button can be set as a single record and a list of records. may be displayed. Buttons and records are examples of objects. The user selects the paper thickness from thick paper (781), plain paper (782), and thin paper (783) and sets the paper thickness by pressing the OK key (785). The set paper thickness is stored in RAM 406.

Fig. 6A shows an example of a paper thickness selection method setting screen. The paper thickness selection method setting screen is displayed by operating the user mode screen. Specifically, when the user mode key 605 of the operation unit 405 is pressed, the user mode screen is displayed. Although not shown, the user mode screen also provides other functions for setting various settings in the image forming apparatus 1000 in addition to those described above.

The paper thickness selection method setting screen 790 includes a fixed setting 791 and an every time setting 792, which are buttons for setting the paper thickness selection method. Each time setting 792 is a button that validates the function of automatically displaying the paper thickness setting screen 770 when it is detected that an original is placed on the original tray 30. The fixed setting 791 is a button that disables the function of automatically displaying the paper thickness setting screen 770 when it is detected that an original is placed on the original tray 30. The user sets the selected paper thickness selection method by selecting one of the fixed setting (791) and the every time setting (792). When the fixed setting 791 is selected, thick paper 794, plain paper 795, and thin paper 796 for which the paper thickness is set are displayed in the paper thickness fixed setting area 793. Thick paper (794), plain paper (795), and thin paper (796) are each selectable. When the OK key (798) is selected with one of thick paper (794), plain paper (795), and thin paper (796) selected, the fixed setting as the paper thickness selection method and the selected paper thickness are set in RAM (406). ) is stored in

Hereinafter, a specific example will be described with reference to FIG. 6B. FIG. 6B shows an example of a screen when the fixed setting is selected as the paper thickness selection method setting and thick paper is selected as the paper thickness fixed setting. FIG. 6B shows a state in which the fixed setting 791 is selected as the paper thickness setting and the thick paper 794 is selected. In this state, when the OK key 798 is pressed, a fixed setting is set as the paper thickness selection method 701 in Fig. 7, and a thick paper is set as the paper thickness fixed setting 702 in Fig. 7, which will be described later.

When the cancel key 797 is selected, the paper thickness selection method setting and paper thickness setting are canceled.

Fig. 6C shows an example of a screen when the every time setting 792 is selected as the paper thickness selection method setting. When the every time setting 792 is selected as the paper thickness setting, the setting button is not displayed in the paper thickness fixed setting area 799. In this state, when the OK key 798 is pressed, the setting is set each time as the paper thickness selection method 701 in Fig. 7.

Figure 7 shows an example of settings stored in RAM 406. The device settings are an area where settings commonly used throughout the device are stored. The device settings area includes paper thickness selection method settings (701), paper thickness fixed settings (702), and paper thickness designation settings (703). . Other device settings may exist. Copy settings 710 is an area where settings used in the copy function are stored. Examples include paper thickness setting (711), page number printing (712), N-in-one printing (713), binding (714), and copy number (715). The above-mentioned setting items are only examples, and other copy settings may be saved. Additionally, there may be an area for storing setting values for other functions other than the copy function, such as a data transmission function.

The image forming apparatus 1000 according to this exemplary embodiment controls execution of the copy job based on the above-described settings.

(Flowchart for setting the paper thickness selection method settings in the user mode screen)

First, with reference to FIG. 8, a flowchart for setting the paper thickness selection method in the user mode screen will be described below.

When the user mode key 605 of the operation unit 405 is selected, the user mode screen is displayed. The flowchart of FIG. 8 starts when the paper thickness selection method setting is selected on the user mode screen. The CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executes the flowchart by reading from the ROM 407 and executing the control program developed in the RAM 406.

In step S801, the CPU 401 displays the paper thickness selection method setting screen 790 shown in Fig. 6A on the LCD touch panel 600. And, the LCD touch panel 600 selects the fixed setting (791) or the every time setting (792) in the paper thickness selection method setting screen 790, and the thick paper displayed in the fixed paper thickness setting area 793 ( 794), plain paper (795), or thin paper (796). CPU 401 stores the received settings in RAM 406.

Next, in step S802, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the cancel key 797 has been accepted. If the selection of the cancel key 797 is accepted (Yes in step S802), the flowchart ends without reflecting the selection status of the paper thickness selection method setting 790 in the device settings. On the other hand, if the selection of the cancel key 797 is not accepted (No in step S802), the process proceeds to step S803.

In step S803, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the OK key 798 has been accepted. If selection of the OK key 798 is accepted (YES in step S803), the process proceeds to step S804. On the other hand, if the selection of the OK key 798 is not accepted (No in step S803), the process returns to step S801.

In step S804, the CPU 401 determines whether the setting selected as the paper thickness selection method is a fixed setting (791). If the fixed setting 791 is selected (YES in step S804), the process proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, if the every time setting 792 is selected (No in step S804), the process proceeds to step S806.

In step S805, the CPU 401 stores the fixed setting as the paper thickness selection method 701 in the device settings 700. Then, the CPU 401 sets the selected paper thickness among the thick paper 794, plain paper 795, and thin paper 796 displayed in the fixed paper thickness setting area 793 to the fixed paper thickness setting ( 702) and end this flowchart.

In step S806, the CPU 401 stores the settings each time as the paper thickness selection method 701 in the device settings 700, and ends this flowchart.

Next, details of the processing by the paper thickness selection method in the device setting 700 when scanning the original placed in the ADF 100 according to the present exemplary embodiment are described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 9. do.

This flowchart starts with the LCD touch panel 600 displaying the copy screen 759. The CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executes the control program read from the ROM 407 and deployed in the RAM 406 to perform this series of processes.

In step S901, the CPU 401 determines whether the detection state of the document detection sensor 23 of the ADF 100 has changed. When the CPU 401 detects a change in the manuscript detection status from "not detected" to "detected" (YES in step S901), the process proceeds to step S902. On the other hand, if the CPU 401 does not detect a change in the manuscript detection state (No in step S901), the process proceeds to step S906.

In step S902, the CPU 401 determines whether each time settings are stored as the paper thickness selection method 701 stored in the RAM 406. If the settings are stored each time (YES in step S902), the process proceeds to step S903. On the other hand, if the settings are not stored each time (No in step S902), the process proceeds to step S906.

In step S903, the CPU 401 displays the paper thickness setting screen 770 shown in FIG. 5B on the LCD touch panel 600, overlapping the current screen, and sets the paper thickness through the paper thickness setting screen 770. Accept your choice.

In step S904, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the OK key 774 has been accepted. If selection of the OK key 774 is accepted (YES in step S904), processing proceeds to step S905. On the other hand, if the selection of the OK key 774 is not accepted (No in step S904), the process proceeds to step S903, and the CPU 401 displays the paper thickness setting screen 770 on the LCD touch panel 600. Display.

In step S905, the CPU 401 enters information about the paper thickness selected at that time (thick paper/plain paper/thin paper) into the paper thickness designation setting (703) of the device setting (700) stored in the RAM (406). ), and processing proceeds to step S906.

In step S906, the CPU 401 displays the copy screen 759 shown in Fig. 5 on the LCD touch panel 600 and accepts copy settings from the user. When the copy settings are changed on the copy screen 759 or other function settings screen 760, the changed copy settings are stored in the corresponding setting items of the copy settings 710 of the RAM 406. When the other function setting screen 760 is displayed, processing to change the displayed function is performed by setting the paper thickness selection method setting 701 in the device setting 700. Details of the processing will be described below with reference to FIG. 10.

Next, in step S907, the CPU 401 determines whether the selection of the start key 607 of the operation unit 405 has been accepted. If selection of the start key 607 is accepted (YES in step S907), the process proceeds to step S908. On the other hand, if the selection of the start key 607 is not accepted (No in step S907), the process returns to step S901.

In step S908, the CPU 401 determines whether a document is placed in the document tray 30 of the ADF 100 based on the signal from the document detection sensor 23. If the CPU 401 determines that an original is placed in the original tray 30 (YES in step S908), the process proceeds to step S910. On the other hand, if the CPU 401 determines that no original is placed in the original tray 30 (No in step S908), the process proceeds to step S909.

In step S909, the CPU 401 instructs the image reading unit 200 to scan the original placed on the platen glass 202. The image reading unit 200 that has received the instruction scans the original placed on the platen glass 202. In this scan, the paper thickness setting 711 stored in the RAM 406 is not used because the original is not conveyed and therefore the scan is not affected by the conveyance speed.

In step S910, the CPU 401 controls the ADF 100 based on the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710 stored in the RAM 406 to perform scanning. Details of the processing in step S910 are described below with reference to FIG. 12.

When scanning is completed, the image data generated based on the original image scan is sent to the image forming unit 500 through the printer IF 408, and printing is performed. When printing ends, CPU 401 initializes copy settings 710 including paper thickness settings 711 stored in RAM 406 and ends processing. In this exemplary embodiment, the copy function has been described as an example of a function for performing scanning, but application to other functions such as email transmission and third generation (G3) facsimile transmission is also possible. In the case of mail transmission, when scanning is completed, image data generated based on the scanned original image is transmitted to a designated destination via a network IF (not shown).

In the first exemplary embodiment, details of processing for validating/disabling the paper thickness setting when the other function setting screen 760 is selected in step S906 are described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 10. This flowchart begins when an instruction to display the other function setting screen 760 is provided. The CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executes the control program read from the ROM 407 and deployed in the RAM 406 to perform this series of processes.

In step S1001, the CPU 401 reads the setting value stored in the paper thickness selection method 701 of the device settings 700. If the saved settings are fixed settings (YES in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if the stored setting is a setting every time (No in step S1001), the process proceeds to step S1004.

In step S1002, the CPU 401 determines that the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy settings 710 is valid, and a paper thickness setting button 763 is placed on the LCD touch panel 600 as shown in Fig. 5C. The other function setting screen 760 is displayed.

In step S1003, the CPU 401 reads the setting value stored in the paper thickness fixed setting 702 of the device setting 700, and stores the read setting value in the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710. do. Afterwards, the flowchart ends.

In step S1004, the CPU 401 determines that the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710 is invalid, and the LCD touch panel 600 uses the paper thickness setting button 763, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 11. The other function setting screen 765 that is not placed is displayed, and the flowchart ends.

Fig. 11 shows an example of the other function setting screen 765 displayed when the settings are stored each time as the paper thickness selection method 701. The other function setting screen 765 is a screen that is displayed when the other function button 757 is pressed on the copy screen 759, similar to the other function setting screen 760 in FIG. 5C. When the setting is saved each time as the paper thickness selection method 701, the paper thickness setting is not set as a setting for each copy job, so the paper thickness setting button 763 for setting the original thickness setting is displayed on the screen. not placed Meanwhile, since other functions may be used, other function buttons are provided on the screen.

Next, details of the ADF scan processing in step S910 in this exemplary embodiment are described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 12. The CPU 321 of the image reading unit 200 executes the control program read from the ROM 322 and deployed in the RAM 323 in response to the scan execution instruction from the CPU 401, thereby performing the process shown in FIG. 12. Do.

In step S1200, the CPU 321, which has received an instruction to start reading the document from the CPU 401 of the controller unit 400, determines the value of the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710. If the paper thickness determined in step S1200 is plain paper (predetermined thickness), the process proceeds to step S1202. In step S1202, the CPU 321 performs control so that document feeding begins. If the paper thickness determined in step S1200 is thick paper (thickness thicker than the predetermined thickness) or thin paper (thickness thinner than the predetermined thickness), the process proceeds to step S1201. In step S1201, CPU 321 notifies CPU 300 of ADF 100 to set the document conveyance speed to low speed.

Upon receiving a notification that the original conveyance speed is set to low, CPU 300 operates the conveyance roller 3, registration roller 4, conveyance roller 5, conveyance roller 6, large roller 7, and discharge roller. Reduce the rotation speed of each motor driving (8) and control the conveyance speed to be lower than the normal conveyance speed. For example, the CPU 300 controls the conveyance speed so that the conveyance speed is set to half the normal half speed. In this way, when the original is a thick paper, the lack of torque at the curved part of the conveyance path can be resolved, and it is possible to prevent the thick paper original from getting caught at the curved part of the conveyance path. Additionally, when the original is a thin paper, the original is discharged after the previously placed original on the thin paper completely falls into the discharge unit. This improves the loadability of the discharge section and prevents thin paper originals from jamming near the discharge section.

After processing in step S1201, processing proceeds to step S1202. In step S1202, the CPU 321 starts feeding the original paper. Afterwards, processing proceeds to step S1203. In step S1203, the CPU 321 causes the image reading unit 200 to read the image data, and the process proceeds to step S1204. The read image data is transmitted to the controller unit 400 through the image data information communication line 353 and stored in the image memory unit 404 through the scanner IF 403.

In step S1204, the CPU 401 executes image processing on the image data stored in the image memory unit 404. In step S1205, the CPU 321 determines whether or not there is an original in the original tray 30. If there is an original in the original tray 30 (YES in step S1204), the process returns to step S1202. On the other hand, if there is no original in the original tray 30 (NO in step S1204), the process shown in the flowchart is terminated.

According to the first exemplary embodiment, the setting as to whether to set the original thickness each time the original is placed on the original tray 30 of the ADF 100 can be made in advance. And, the setting of whether to set the paper thickness each time a document is placed in the document tray 30 of the ADF 100 can be stored as a device setting. This makes it possible to set the paper thickness setting with fewer operations based on the thickness of the paper used by the user while preventing any settings from being set. For example, in an environment where the image forming device 1000 is installed and there is a possibility that documents of various thicknesses may be read, the settings are saved each time to prevent the document thickness setting from being set, and to prevent paper jams due to incorrect document conveyance. This prevents image data from being read incorrectly from originals.

In an environment where the image forming apparatus 1000 is installed, when only documents of the same thickness are scanned or documents of different thicknesses are not frequently scanned, the need to set the document thickness setting each time is reduced by storing the fixed settings.

In the first exemplary embodiment, processing for setting settings for a new copy job performed through the copy screen 759 or other function setting screen 760 has been described, but the copy function settings are set by reading previously stored settings. There are cases where it happens. For example, there are cases where the copy settings from previous execution of the copy function are saved as history and the copy function history can be read, and combinations of frequently used settings are saved as favorite settings and the saved favorite settings can be used later. In some cases, it is read by integrating it with . There are other cases where values set as default settings are displayed when the copy screen 759 is displayed. When such settings reading processing is performed and the read settings include the paper thickness setting 711, the paper thickness setting is performed based on the value stored in the paper thickness selection method 701 of the device setting 700, similar to the flowchart in FIG. 10. Determine whether (711) is valid. If the paper thickness selection method 701 is set to the setting every time, the paper thickness setting 711 is determined to be invalid. The paper thickness setting 711 included in the read settings is ignored, and only other settings are reflected. And, when the ADF 100 detects an original, a paper thickness setting screen 770 is displayed to prompt the user to set the thickness of the original when the original is placed. As described above, when reading copy settings from history and when reading combinations of frequently used settings, settings can be made as to whether or not to display the paper thickness setting screen 770 when an original is placed.

Information about the original thickness set by the user through the screen shown in FIG. 5B or FIG. 5D in this exemplary embodiment is deleted by pressing the reset key 603. Additionally, the information is deleted after printing or transmission of the scanned image is completed, so the information cannot be used in the next job. That is, the information is deleted when the task is complete. This prevents the original thickness set by the user through the screen shown in FIG. 5B or 5D from being unintentionally used for another original in the next job. In contrast, information about the original thickness set through the screen shown in FIG. 6A is not deleted even when printing or transmission of the scanned image is completed.

Additionally, in the first exemplary embodiment, an example was described where the user selects a thickness from thick paper 794, plain paper 795, and thin paper 796 when the fixed setting 791 is selected. Alternatively, if the fixed setting 791 is selected, the factory default value can be saved and used as the paper thickness fixed setting 702. For example, plain paper 795, which is likely to be used frequently, can be stored as a default value.

A second exemplary embodiment is described below. The first exemplary embodiment was explained using an example in which, when the paper thickness selection method is set every time, the setting of the original thickness setting through the other function setting screen is invalid. In the second exemplary embodiment, an example in which the paper thickness setting can be changed through the copy function will be described even when the paper thickness selection method is set every time.

Referring to the flowchart in FIG. 13, control in the case where the original thickness setting in FIG. 5D can be set even when the setting is set each time as the paper thickness selection method 701 will be described.

Although copy is explained as an example, it can also be applied to mail transmission in which images are scanned and sent by email, and G3 facsimile transmission in which images are scanned and sent by facsimile. In the description of this flowchart, each step that is similar to the step in the first exemplary embodiment is given the same step number, and the description thereof is omitted. The CPU 401 of the controller unit 400 executes the control program read from the ROM 407 and deployed in the RAM 406 to perform this series of processes.

In steps S901 and S902, operations similar to those of steps S901 and S902 in Fig. 9 of the first exemplary embodiment are performed. In the present exemplary embodiment, if the CPU 401 determines in step S902 that the paper thickness selection method 701 is set to every time (YES in step S902), the process proceeds to step S1301.

In step S1301, the CPU 401 determines whether the original thickness setting is stored as the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710. If the CPU 401 determines that the original thickness setting is stored (YES in step S1301), the process proceeds to step S906. On the other hand, if the CPU 401 determines that the original thickness setting is not stored (No in step S1301), the process proceeds to step S903. The operations of steps S903, S904 and S905 are the same as those of the first exemplary embodiment. In step S905, the CPU 401 stores the paper thickness designation setting 703, and then the process proceeds to step S1302.

In step S1302, the CPU 401 reads the setting stored as the paper thickness specification setting 703 in step S905, sets the read setting as the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710, and the processing continues in step S905. It proceeds with S906. The operations of step S906 and subsequent steps are the same as those of the first exemplary embodiment, and description thereof is omitted.

Additionally, when the other function setting screen 760 is selected in step S906 of the second exemplary embodiment, the processing shown in Fig. 10 is not executed, and the paper thickness setting button 763 shown in Fig. 5C is pressed to the LCD touch. It is displayed on panel 600.

At this time, the paper thickness setting 711 of the copy setting 710 is determined to be valid, and the other function setting screen 760 that provides the paper thickness setting button 763 shown in FIG. 5C is displayed on the LCD touch panel 600. Display.

According to the second exemplary embodiment, even if the set paper thickness selection method is set every time, the paper thickness setting can be changed through the copy function. In addition, if the user sets the manuscript thickness through the screen of FIG. 5D before placing the manuscript on the manuscript tray 30, when placing the manuscript on the manuscript tray 30, the user can set the manuscript again through the screen of FIG. 5B. There is no need to set the thickness, and the user's effort can be reduced.

In this exemplary embodiment, information about the original thickness set by the user through the screen shown in FIG. 5B or FIG. 5D is deleted by pressing the reset key 603. Additionally, the information is deleted after printing or transmission of the scanned image is completed, so the information cannot be used in the next job. That is, the information is deleted when the task is complete. This prevents the original thickness set by the user through the screen shown in FIG. 5B or 5D from being unintentionally used for another original in the next job. In contrast, information about the original thickness set through the screen shown in Fig. 6A is not deleted even after printing or transmission of the scanned image is completed.

In the second exemplary embodiment, the paper thickness setting 711 can be set not only by setting through the screen in Fig. 5D, but also by recalling the setting history or by recalling a frequently used function. Alternatively, the paper thickness setting 711 can be set by recalling the default setting upon activation of the image forming apparatus 1000.

(Other exemplary embodiments)

Additionally, the above-described exemplary embodiment was explained using an example of displaying the paper thickness setting screen 770 in a pop-up form when a manuscript is placed. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and for example, when an original is placed, the copy screen 759 may be changed to the paper thickness setting screen 770.

Additionally, in the above-described exemplary embodiment, an example of displaying the paper thickness setting screen 770 for setting the original thickness when the original is placed has been described. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to an example of displaying a screen for setting at least one setting value among the items of the original size and other application functions provided on the copy screen 759 when the original is placed. You can.

Other Embodiments

Embodiment(s) of the present disclosure may be recorded on a storage medium (which may more fully be referred to as a 'non-transitory computer-readable storage medium') to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s). One or more circuits (e.g., application specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) that read and execute computer-executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) and/or perform the functions of one or more of the foregoing embodiment(s) by a computer of a system or device comprising and/or by reading and executing computer-executable instructions from a storage medium, for example, to execute the functions of one or more of the foregoing embodiment(s) and/or s) may be realized by a computer-executed method of the system or device by controlling one or more circuits to execute one or more functions. A computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU)) and may include a separate computer or network of separate processors for reading and executing computer-executable instructions. can do. Computer-executable instructions may be provided to a computer, for example, from a network or storage medium. Storage media include, for example, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), storage in distributed computing systems, optical disks (e.g., compact disks (CDs), digital versatile disks (DVDs), or It may include one or more of a Blu-ray Disc (BD) ^TM ), a flash memory device, or a memory card.

(Other examples)

The present invention provides a program that realizes one or more functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It is also feasible in processing.

Additionally, it can also be executed by a circuit (eg, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be interpreted in the broadest manner so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims (12)

An image processing device configured to return the original paper from an original tray based on information about the thickness of the original paper,
Detection means for detecting the original paper placed on the original tray;
display means for displaying an object for setting a thickness of the original paper when the detection means detects the original paper placed in the original tray;
paper conveying control means for causing the paper conveying means to convey the manuscript paper based on the information about the thickness set by the object displayed by the display means; and
and reading means for reading an image of the original paper conveyed by the paper conveying means,
The image processing device receives a setting as to whether or not to display a screen for setting the thickness of the original paper when the detection means detects that the original paper has been placed. According to paragraph 1,
It further includes storage means for storing information about the thickness of the manuscript paper separately from the information about the thickness set by the object displayed by the display means,
When the screen for setting the thickness of the original paper is set not to be displayed, the paper conveyance control means causes the paper conveyance means to convey the original paper based on the information about the thickness stored in the storage means. , image processing device. According to paragraph 2,
The image processing device wherein the thickness of the original paper indicated by the information stored in the storage means is preset by a user before the original paper is placed on the original tray. According to paragraph 2,
The image processing device, wherein the thickness of the manuscript paper indicated by the information stored in the storage means is a factory default value. According to paragraph 1,
The image processing device wherein the paper conveyance control means causes the paper conveyance means to convey the manuscript paper at a conveyance speed based on the information about the thickness set by the object displayed by the display means. According to clause 5,
When the thickness of the original paper set through the screen displayed by the display means is thicker than the predetermined thickness, the paper conveyance control means adjusts the conveyance speed of the original paper so that the thickness of the original paper is thicker than the predetermined thickness. An image processing device that sets a speed slower than the conveyance speed in one case. According to clause 5,
When the thickness of the original paper set through the screen displayed by the display means is thinner than the predetermined thickness, the paper conveyance control means adjusts the conveyance speed of the original paper so that the thickness of the original paper is the predetermined thickness. An image processing device that sets a speed slower than the normal conveyance speed. According to paragraph 1,
further comprising operating means,
In the case where the screen for setting the thickness of the original paper is set to be displayed when the detection means detects that the original paper is placed, the thickness of the original paper is displayed on the screen displayed by the user's operation of the operating means. The object that sets is displayed,
In the case where the screen for setting the thickness of the original paper is set not to be displayed when the detection means detects that the original paper is placed, the screen displayed by the user's operation of the operation means displays the original paper. An image processing device that does not display objects whose thickness is set. According to paragraph 1,
An image processing device further comprising printing means for printing an image of the manuscript paper read by the reading means. According to paragraph 1,
The image processing device further includes transmitting means for transmitting image data generated based on the image of the manuscript paper read by the reading means. A control method of an image processing device configured to return the original paper from an original tray based on information about the thickness of the original paper,
displaying an object for setting the thickness of the original paper when a detection means detects that the original paper is placed in the original tray;
causing a paper conveying means to convey the manuscript paper based on information about the thickness set by the displayed object;
reading, using a reading means, an image of the original paper conveyed by the paper conveying means; and
A control method of an image processing device comprising the step of accepting a setting as to whether or not to display a screen for setting the thickness of the original paper when the detection means detects that the original paper is placed. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute a control method of an image processing device configured to return the manuscript paper from a manuscript tray based on information about the thickness of the manuscript paper,
The control method of the image processing device is:
displaying an object for setting the thickness of the original paper when a detection means detects that the original paper is placed in the original tray;
causing a paper conveying means to convey the manuscript paper based on information about the thickness set by the displayed object;
reading, using a reading means, an image of the original paper conveyed by the paper conveying means; and
A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising: receiving a setting as to whether or not to display a screen for setting the thickness of the original paper when the detection means detects that the original paper is placed.

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